Pack in Austin's Must Do Activities

There are countless ways to experience Austin's rich and diverse Latin & Hispanic heritage in a weekend visit, so we're here to help you make the most of it! To help you navigate through our museums, authentic Mexican and Latin-American eateries, or artisan shops, here is a jam-packed itinerary full of Austin’s hot spots and best-loved Latino/Latina-owned businesses.

Courtesy of Mexic-Arte Museum.

Day One

If there’s anything Austinites love more than tacos, it's when they’re served from a food truck. Uphold this fine Austin tradition and swing by Veracruz All Natural, Rosita’s Al Pastor or Pueblo Viejo for breakfast.

Next, head downtown to the Mexic-Arte Museum to see a plethora of ever-changing exhibits showcasing the contemporary and traditional Mexican and Latin American art and culture. Afterwards, buy some artisan knick-knacks at the museum store and snap a pic at the iconic rotating mural on the West Fifth Street side of the museum. Then, visit the 2ND Street shopping district or take the family to Zilker Park to experience Austin’s outdoor offerings. If you’re in the mood for water activities, go kayaking or paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake.

Once you’ve built up a healthy appetite, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from in downtown Austin, whether you’re in the mood for some regional Mexican fare at Polvos' downtown location, light ceviches from La Condesa or lunch at woman-owned Pelons Tex Mex, where you can enjoy homemade margaritas and authentic Southwestern Mexican food.

Head east in the afternoon for a self-guided tour of the Tejano National Walking Trail, featuring 24 culturally significant sites along 4.9 miles. Stops include the Cesar Chavez statue at the Terrazas Branch of the Austin Public Library, the Oswaldo A.B. Cantu/Pan American Recreation Center and historic homes like the impressive Briones House. Or, browse the shelves at Resistencia Bookstore, featuring Native American/Chicanx/Latinx, feminist and queer literature. Cool down with a snack from one of East Austin’s many fruterías, such as Hay Elotes.

Courtesy of Buenos Aires Cafe.

Load up on traditional eats as diverse as Austin itself on the eastside. East Sixth’s Buenos Aires Cafe features authentic Argentinian cuisine, from empanadas to pastel de papas. Tamale House East fires up traditional Mexican cuisine with modern flare, known for their Mom's Migas, Mexi-iced coffee and Texas-sized tamales. 

Make your way to the Congress Avenue Bridge just before sunset to witness 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight, March – October. This is truly a unique Austin activity! Watch from the bridge, the Statesman Bat Observation Center or take a sunset cruise with Capital Cruises or Lone Star Riverboats.

After the sun goes down, experience the Live Music Capital of the World® in action at beloved bars, clubs and venues showcasing Latino/a and Hispanic musicians and DJs. Hop on a pedicab and head to the venue of your choice; enjoy regular Latin and world beat music at the Sahara Lounge or learn to cumbia at Club Carnaval.

Butler Hike & Bike Trail. Credit Nick Simonite.

Day Two

Get an early start with a sunrise hike up to the overlook at Mount Bonnell or a jog on the Butler Hike and Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake. After grabbing coffee at Ani's Day and Night or breakfast tacos at Joe's Bakery & Coffee Shop or, take a tour of the Texas State Capitol and check out the Tejano Monument out front.

Make your way to South Congress and browse the various boutiques. Support local artists at Paper Work or feed your inner child at Big Top Candy Shop.

Around lunch time, hit up one of the many food trucks around Austin like Valentina's Tex-Mex BBQ, the Vegan Nom, Cuantos Tacos and more. Or sit down at for Plaza Colombian for authentic Colombian tapas. Looking for more? Try a food tour with Austin Eats Food Tours.

For a deep dive into Austin and Texas cultural history, check out the Bullock Texas State History Museum, the Austin History Center or the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB-MACC). Check the ESB-MACC's event calendar for signature programming like their annual Dia de los Muertos festival, which celebrates passed loved ones through ofrendas (offerings), live music, food and family-friendly activities.

Credit Austin FC.

If you're in town during soccer season, catch a home fútbol match at Q2 Stadium and cheer on Austin's MLS team, Austin FC. For dinner, enjoy Nixta Taqueria, known for its handmade, colorful tortillas and home to chef Edgar Rico, 2022 James Beard Emerging Chef award winner. For another award-winning meal, check out El Naranjo. Try James Beard Foundation's 2022 Best Chef in Texas award winner Iliana de la Vega's traditional Mexican fare, like fresh ceviches and savory empanadas.  Finish off your trip with a night of dancing on Sixth Street. Don't forget to make a stop at Flamingo Cantina, known for its DJs spinning reggae, World and Latin music and hip hop beats.

Find more itineraries and start planning your next Austin visit today!